Don't want Windows 11 yet? Here is how to keep updates on Windows 10
Support for Windows 10 officially ends on 14 October, 2025, meaning Microsoft will stop providing free security updates and patches.
But for users who aren't ready-or able-to upgrade to Windows 11, there's a way to stay protected for one more year: Windows 10 Extended Security Updates (ESU).
Here's what to know about keeping your PC secure after Windows 10's end of support.
What is the Windows 10 ESU?
The Extended Security Updates (ESU) program allows consumers to continue receiving critical and important security updates through 13 October, 2026.
It's designed as a temporary bridge for users transitioning to Windows 11 and doesn't include new features, fixes, or technical support-just the essential updates that keep your system secure from major vulnerabilities.
Who can enroll
To qualify for ESU, your PC must:
The program is meant for personal devices, not commercial setups like those joined to corporate domains, managed by Mobile Device Management (MDM), or configured as kiosks.
How to get Windows 10 ESU
Consumers can enroll in one of three ways:
To enroll:
Each ESU license can cover up to 10 devices linked to the same Microsoft account.
What if you don't-or can't-enroll in ESU?
If you decide not to enroll, your PC will stop receiving security updates. That means new malware or ransomware threats could exploit unpatched vulnerabilities.
You can still take steps to reduce your risk:
These measures won't replace security patches-but they can help minimize exposure.
What about upgrading to Windows 11?
Upgrading to Windows 11 remains the long-term solution.
However, many older PCs don't meet its hardware requirements, such as TPM 2.0 and Secure Boot.
It's technically possible to force-install Windows 11 on unsupported hardware, but doing so requires registry edits and manual installation steps that carry risks. Unsupported systems may face stability or driver issues and could miss future updates. Microsoft doesn't officially recommend this route unless you're comfortable with technical troubleshooting.
The Windows 10 ESU program buys users an extra year of protection, giving more time to upgrade or replace devices.
But after October 2026, even ESU users will lose official security support-making the shift to newer hardware and Windows 11 inevitable for long-term safety.